Italy were crowned the Euro 2020 champions as they defeated England 3-2 in a penalty shootout at Wembley Stadium on Sunday. And while fans of the Three Lions were left heartbroken by the outcome, there was still plenty of praise to go around as the team managed, with their latest appearance, to end a 55-year drought in not making a tournament final.
“In terms of the players, they’ve given everything they could have – not only tonight but through the whole tournament,” England coach Gareth Southgate said after the shootout defeat. “They should hold their heads high.
“They’re a team who have pulled together, given the country some incredible evenings, but of course tonight the devastation of getting so close and not being able to give our country the trophy we wanted to is difficult to put into context.
“You can imagine how the dressing room is, so that of course is difficult to put into words at the moment, but in terms of the players they’ve given absolutely everything and I’m very proud of them”.
Despite the devastating defeat, fans and celebrities took to social media after the match to thank and congratulate the team for getting as far as they did and for achieving something that united the country.
From Prince William to London mayor Sadiq Khan, here's a look at the celebrities and politicians who posted messages of support after the match.
Prince William
Prince William tweeted that the outcome was “heartbreaking” while also congratulating the Italian side. “England, you’ve all come so far, but sadly this time it wasn’t our day. You can all hold your heads high, and be so proud of yourselves – I know there’s more to come.”
Adele
The Rolling in the Deep hitmaker hasn’t been shy about showing support for England. After the match, she uploaded a photo of herself in a jersey, writing: “You did us so proud!”
Sadiq Khan
London mayor Sadiq Khan tweeted to thank the team for how they “united” the country “both on and off the pitch at every turn”. He said the country couldn’t be any prouder of what was achieved during the tournament, signing off with: "We still believe."
Nigella Lawson
British food writer and TV chef Nigella Lawson tweeted to congratulate Italy but also thank Southgate and the team. She also tweeted that she is looking forward to the Fifa World Cup.
Sarah Ferguson
The Duchess of York tweeted her support for coach Southgate. "So proud of our team," she said.
Oti Mabuse
South African dancer Oti Mabuse, who appears on the UK shows Strictly Come Dancing and The Masked Dancer, was more upfront about her feelings after the match, simply tweeting she was “heartbroken”.
Piers Morgan
Controversial broadcaster Piers Morgan also tweeted appreciation for the England team, writing: “I admire every player who steps up ... to take a penalty in a game that important. Especially when they’re just 19, 21 and 23.” He also tagged players Bukayo Saka, Jadon Sancho and Marcus Rashford in his tweet before finishing with: “You missed, and we lost, but you’ve all got guts.”
Liam Gallagher
Former Oasis frontman also tweeted his support after the match, telling the team to go “smash the World Cup”.
